October 2022

Hurricane Ian Updates

Our thoughts go out to all affected by Hurricane Ian. This category 4 hurricane came ashore along the southwest coast of Florida and has greatly impacted Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida families and council staff. We appreciate the patience and understanding of our members as we ensured that properties were safe and ready for use.


With the exception of the Collier Girl Scout House, we are happy to share that our council properties have been assessed and are beginning to reopen. If a location is available, the property reservation system will allow booking through the standard process. Anyone who had an existing reservation has been contacted by customer care with updates.


We also wish to express our gratitude to GSUSA and the GSUSA Board of Directors who have lifted fundraising restrictions which enables councils to raise money for members and communities directly impacted by Hurricane Ian. Learn more about how you and troops can help on our blog


Did you and your Girl Scout troop already step up and take action to assist others in recovery from Hurricane Ian?  Please let us know how you became a hurricane hero by completing the Hurricane Ian Action Team Story Form to share the impact you made for others. Include photos or video that we can use to highlight your efforts. Within a month of submitting your story, you will receive a 2022 Hurricane Ian Action Team Patch at no cost to you or your Girl Scouts.  We also invite you to post your photos on the GSGCF Troops in Action page.

Learn More

Happy Birthday Juliette!

Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of Girl Scouts, was born on October 31, 1860. Girl Scouts from all across the country have observed her birthday throughout the month with special events and activities. Join the GSGCF Troops In Action Facebook group and share your Founder's Day celebration activities and photos with your sister Girl Scouts. We can't wait to see the many creative ways girls honored Juliette.

Troops in Action

2022 Gold Award Girl Scout Class 

The Gold Award is the highest award in Girl Scouts, and those who earn it set themselves apart from their peers through their perseverance and grit.


Upwards of 3,500 Girl Scouts in the 2022 Gold Award Class found meaningful ways to address some of the most pressing issues facing their communities, acted on issues they are passionate about, and discovered they have the power to create the future they want.


Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida's Class of 2022 Gold Award Girl Scouts and their projects are all featured on GSUSA's Gold Award website. Search them and other Gold Award Girl Scouts from across the nation.


Curious about how to start the Gold Award process? Learn more on our website!

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Stay Tuned!

It's almost that time of year again! Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida's Annual Gingerbread Festival will take place in December in partnership with University Town Center in Sarasota. We will be back inside the The Mall at UTC and entries will be displayed in conjunction with the UTC Festival of Trees in various areas along the upper level of the mall during December 1-19. 


We look forward to displaying one-of-a-kind gingerbread houses created by troops, schools, non-profits, and businesses. The first kit is once again complimentary for Girl Scout troops and classrooms with each additional kit costing $10.  Gingerbread house kits are limited to the first 200 requests and are available for pickup from the UTC Mall Customer Service Team beginning November 9. A reservation form must be completed to enter and receive a kit. 


If you know you will be participating in this year's festival, register your gingerbread house using this form. For more details contact [email protected]

Reserve your House Here

2023 Destinations Early Decision Application

Deadline - November 15

Have you heard of Girl Scout Destinations? They're the ultimate adventure for Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors - and the perfect way to meet new friends from across the U.S.A.! 


Ever wanted to hike the Swiss Alps? Kayak through Greek islands? Practice photography in picturesque California or learn to ride a horse in the wide-open Georgia countryside? 


With more than 30 trips to choose from, you're sure to find one that sparks your interests and launches you into an unforgettable experience. 


Check out all available opportunities. Applications are now open for summer 2023 Destinations, and the “early decision” application round closes November 15.

Learn More

Save the Date

Stay updated on the latest council programs and learning opportunities on our events page. Some upcoming highlights include a Thankful Themed Family Campfire Circle in November and a Holiday Edition Family Campfire Circle in December. Remember that some activities may require registration several weeks in advance and may fill up quickly. Click below and mark your calendar!

Events Page

STAY CONNECTED:


Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, Inc. is chartered by Girl Scouts of the USA
and serves girls in Manatee, Hardee, Highlands, Sarasota, DeSoto,
Charlotte, Glades, Lee, Hendry, and Collier Counties.